Hadith #948

In the name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. Praise be to Allah, the Lord of all worlds. May peace and blessings be upon our beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his pure progeny, and his noble companions.

The Arabic Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) states, "الأذى يَجْلِبُ القِلَى" which translates to "Harm breeds hatred" in English. This concise statement holds profound wisdom and offers valuable guidance for Muslims in their interactions and relationships with others.

To understand the deeper meaning of this Hadith, let us examine the key words used. The word (harm) "أذى" refers to any action or behavior that causes pain, suffering, or distress to another person. It encompasses physical, emotional, and psychological harm. The word (breeds) "يَجْلِبُ" implies that harm has a direct consequence, leading to the emergence or intensification of something negative. And finally, the word (hatred) "قِلَى" refers to a strong feeling of dislike, animosity, or enmity towards someone.

This Hadith aligns with the teachings of the Quran, which repeatedly emphasizes the importance of treating others with kindness, compassion, and respect. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Al-Hujurat (49:11),

O you who have believed, let not a people ridicule [another] people; perhaps they may be better than them; nor let women ridicule [other] women; perhaps they may be better than them.

Furthermore, in Surah Al-Isra (17:53), Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says,

And tell My servants to say that which is best. Indeed, Satan induces [dissension] among them. Indeed Satan is ever, to mankind, a clear enemy.

The Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) highlights the consequences of causing harm to others. When we intentionally or unintentionally harm someone, it creates a negative cycle that perpetuates animosity and ill feelings. This harm can manifest in various forms, such as physical violence, hurtful words, betrayal, or even neglecting the rights of others.

For example, if a person continuously belittles or insults another individual, it is natural for the one being harmed to develop resentment and animosity towards the offender. This hatred can lead to a breakdown in relationships, loss of trust, and even escalate into further harm or conflicts.

Conversely, when we strive to avoid causing harm and instead treat others with kindness, empathy, and respect, it fosters positive relationships and builds bridges of understanding. The Quran encourages Muslims to respond to harm with forgiveness and good deeds. Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) says in Surah Fussilat (41:34),

And not equal are the good deed and the bad. Repel [evil] by that [deed] which is better; and thereupon the one whom between you and him is enmity [will become] as though he was a devoted friend.

Imam Ali's (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) beautiful saying serves as a reminder for Muslims to be mindful of the consequences of their actions and to strive for harmonious relationships with others. It encourages us to reflect upon the impact our words and deeds can have on others and to choose kindness over harm.

In conclusion, the Hadith of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) "Harm breeds hatred" reminds us of the importance of treating others with respect, compassion, and empathy. It serves as a call to action for Muslims to avoid causing harm to others and to instead foster positive relationships based on understanding and forgiveness. By embodying these teachings, we can contribute to a more harmonious and compassionate society. May Allah (سُبْحَانَهُ وَتَعَالَىٰ) guide us in following the noble example of Imam Ali (عَلَيْهِ ٱلسَّلَامُ) and enable us to spread peace and love among all Muslims.